ASPCA Provides Funding for Hay, Equine Expenses Following Outbreak of California...( NEW YORK Oct. 24 /- The ASPCA(R) ...),Health

NEW YORK, Oct. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- The ASPCA(R) (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals(R)) is providing funding to the San Diego Humane Society for hay and other equine supplies needed following the outbreak of devastating wildfires in California.

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"The ASPCA is happy to provide financial assistance for animals affected by this horrible tragedy," said ASPCA President and CEO Ed Sayres. "Our disaster readiness experts are in touch with the San Diego Animal Coalition as well as animal welfare groups throughout the Los Angeles area, and although the ASPCA's assistance on the ground has not yet been requested, we are standing by and monitoring the situation carefully."

Animal welfare officials in the area say evacuees appear to be taking their animals with them and that shelters, especially the Red Cross, have been very accommodating toward pets. However, larger animals, such as horses, can present special challenges, according to Sandy Monterose, the ASPCA's Senior Director of National Outreach. "We're glad the ASPCA is able to help address the challenge of providing food for some of these larger animals," she said.

"The collaboration and support of animal and human welfare organizations nationwide is paramount during a relief effort like this, and the response so far has been very impressive," said Sayres. "This collaboration and organization of disaster relief efforts has no doubt saved countless lives, humans and animals alike."

Earlier this week, southern California exploded with wildfires caused by severe Santa Ana winds and dry weather conditions that forced thousands of people and animals from their homes. At least 15 separate wildfires have destroyed over 200,000 acres, forcing the evacuation of more than 900,000 people and their pets, destroying hundreds of
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